U.S. consumer sentiment rose more than expected in August on the back of the sharp drop in gasoline prices, but remains near a record low as consumers shouldered multi-decade-high inflation and continuing economic uncertainty. … READ MORE >
economic indicators
Canada’s GDP steady as spending on services remained strong in May
Friday’s data for Canada comes just a day after reports that the U.S. economy recorded its second consecutive quarter of negative GDP growth, … READ MORE >
Jobless claims in July continue rising layoffs trend
Initial jobless continue to trend above the pre-pandemic average, as the U.S. economy contracted for the second consecutive quarter. However, continued jobless claims remain flat, suggesting people receiving unemployment benefits aren’t remaining unemployed for long. … READ MORE >
Initial jobless claims fall below pre-pandemic level while housing starts improve
New filings for jobless claims, a proxy for job layoffs, fell below the pre-pandemic level once again last week to 214,000, according to the Department of Labor. That marked a 15,000 drop from the prior week and a continuing testament to how tight the labor market has been. … READ MORE >
Canada retail sales climbed in August as in-person activities picked up
The rise in retail sales was led by food and beverage stores, where sales went up by 4.8%, clothing stores, up 3.9%, and gasoline stations, with 3.8% growth. … READ MORE >
Existing home sales rebounded in September to highest level since February
The sales number was an upside surprise to earlier estimates of 6.1 million units, pointing to a stronger-than-expected housing market last month. … READ MORE >
RSM recovery watch: Upgraded growth forecast and more evidence of a turn in the business cycle
There are arguably enough positive indications to begin planning for a return to normal commercial activity. Here is a sampling of what’s to come, or better put, what the data is suggesting. … READ MORE >